Broad Sword Fern

Taxonomic Name: Nephrolepis biserrata

Wood Fern Family

Nonflowering Herbaceous Plant

This impressive foliage plant is a close but fairly unknown relative of the famous Boston fern. It is distinguished from the latter by its much longer and more leathery fronds. The broad sword fern is happiest--and most impressive--where it has the room to grow into a wide, gracefully arching specimen.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Bright indirect sunlight is best. Your broad sword fern should thrive in an unobstructed northern or eastern window. But keep in mind that is not as tolerant of dimly lit locations as its cousin, the Boston fern.

WATERING: Water as soon as the soil surface feels dry to the touch. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water for more than thirty minutes.  

FEEDING: Feed the plant only when it is actively growing, and then do so sparingly. Use a high-nitrogen (high first number) houseplant fertilizer applied at half the concentration and frequency listed in the product directions.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Like almost all ferns, your broad sword fern prefers high humidity. Consider placing a water-filled gravel tray under your plant, or place the plant near a room humidifier.